Letters to the Editor
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re: wes
I've read *A Season on the Brink,* Wes, and you know, the interesting thing about that book is that, for everyone of those scenes where Knight is blowing his stack and behaving like a boor, there's an example of his integrity, generosity, and passion for his players and his team. Knight has crossed the line too many times to count, and yet there's no denying his committment to his players, his extraordinary graduation rate, his efforts to ensure that his players attempt to be legitimate students, or--most importantly--the loyalty of his former players, including those who were on the squads covered by John Feinstein for the book. Mike Krzyzewski, Steve Alford, Quinn Buckner, Scott May, Isaiah Thomas, and many others have stood by Knight; many of his former players' parents have expressed gratitude for the discipline he enforced on their sons.
I am not a defender or apologist for Bob Knight, but I see him as a much more complex and ambiguous figure than he is generally credited as being. Furthermore, having attended a number of Duke Blue Devils games with seats near the bench, and having heard the way Coach K. talks to his players, I'm convinced that the only thing that separates Krzyzewski from Knight is their management of the media. Knight doesn't bother to hide his contempt for journalists, whereas Coach K. has perfected the art of crafting a positive public image.
I think it's also absurd to imply that Knight's recruiting declined because of his own personal apathy. Knight may be too egocentric to court and flatter high school stars, but is that such a bad thing? Is it bad that Knight refuses to recruit players who openly admit that they haven't the slightest interest in any aspect of university life other than the basketball team, and intend to stay 'in school' only as long as it's necessary to become an NBA 1st round draft pick? Is it bad that Knight demands teamwork and discipline? Is it bad that Knight prefers players who expect to work hard and sacrifice rather than to be treated like royalty?
Knight's temper and vulgarity are unforgivable, but his teaching methods are admirable, and proven to be successful. Coach K. has perfected them, along with the art of public relations, and has consequently become the most admired active coach in NCAA basketball.
Just sayin.'
P.S.--I hate Dook!